Care Guide for Hand Painted Sarees
Hand-painted sarees are exquisite pieces of art that not only showcase the skill and creativity of the artisan but also add elegance and charm to your wardrobe. These sarees require special care to preserve their beauty and longevity. Here’s a guide on how to take care of your hand-painted sarees:
Washing
- Hand-wash your hand-painted sarees separately in cold water using a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach as they can damage the fabric and fade the colors.
- Gently swirl the saree in the water without wringing or rubbing it vigorously to prevent the colors from bleeding.
- Rinse the saree thoroughly to remove all traces of detergent.
- Do not soak the saree for an extended period to prevent color bleeding.
Drying
- After washing, gently squeeze out excess water from the saree without wringing it.
- Hang the saree on a padded hanger or lay it flat on a clean towel to air dry in shade. Avoid direct sunlight as it can fade the colors.
- Avoid using clothes dryers or hanging the saree in direct sunlight as they can damage the delicate hand-painted motifs and the fabric.
Ironing
- Iron the saree on the reverse side using a low to medium heat setting.
- Place a thin cotton cloth over the saree before ironing to protect the hand-painted motifs from direct heat.
- Avoid ironing directly on the painted surface as it can cause the colors to smudge or fade.
Storage
- Store your hand-painted sarees in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading and damage.
- Avoid hanging the saree for prolonged periods to prevent stretching of the fabric. Instead, fold it neatly and store it in a cotton saree bag or a clean, breathable cotton cloth.
Handling
- When wearing or handling the saree, avoid contact with rough surfaces or sharp objects that can snag or tear the delicate fabric.
- Take care while draping the saree to prevent the painted motifs from rubbing against rough surfaces or jewelry, which can cause damage.
Professional Cleaning
- If your hand-painted saree requires deep cleaning or stain removal, it is advisable to seek professional dry cleaning services that specialize in handling delicate fabrics and hand-painted garments.
Avoiding Perfumes and Deodorants
- Refrain from applying perfumes or deodorants directly onto the saree, especially on the painted areas, as they may contain chemicals that can react with the colors and cause fading or discoloration.
By following these simple care instructions, you can ensure that your hand-painted sarees retain their beauty and charm for years to come, allowing you to cherish them as timeless pieces of wearable art.